Idaho is quite the agricultural state and the state’s biggest city, Boise, is no exception. Between 2002 and 2007 the number of farms in Boise went to 105 from 89 according to the U.S. Census of Agriculture. With crop sales accounting for 75 percent of products sold and livestock sales accounting for 25 percent, Boise farmers keep busy.
Undoubtedly, there are Boise farmers using USDA loans to finance their homes. Part of the Rural Home Loan program, USDA loans offer several benefits and favorable terms to prospective homebuyers. The title of the program often misleads homebuyers into thinking they need to be farmers to be eligible. However, this is no longer a requirement. Although farmers may still be eligible for a USDA loan, people seeking a home in a certain area may also be eligible.
Eligible areas include open country that is not associated with an urban area. Towns, cities and villages with fewer than 25,000 people may be eligible too, especially if they are far from an urban area, not included in a Metropolitan Statistical Area and lack mortgage credit. USDA loan borrowers’ income must fall within specified parameters as well. Borrowers’ income cannot be higher than 115 percent of the area’s median income. The USDA also decides if the sought after home is a reasonable size for the family, based on the number of people who will live there. Plus, the family must currently live in inadequate housing, meaning it is unfit because for the size of the family.
The Rural Home Loan program’s financial advantages are plenty. USDA loans in Boise come with no down payment. Other than a few other federal loan programs, no mortgage option has such a feature. More benefits of USDA loans include:
-Combining the 2 percent funding fee into a loan, making it 102 percent of the home’s value
-No private mortgage insurance cost every month
-Loan lives as long as 38 years with fixed rates
-Getting legal fees and closing costs lumped into the loan
-Financing the purchase, construction, repair, renovation or refinancing of a property
Like other government programs, the federal government does not issue the loan. Instead, the USDA guarantees part of each loan to protect lenders from an unlikely default. Consequently, the USDA does not have specific financial requirements. USDA-approved lenders do have some preferences, though.
These lenders calculate the cost of the loan divided by gross monthly income to determine whether a family can afford a USDA loan in Boise. If the resulting quotient is higher than 29 percent, the family won’t qualify. Similarly, lenders’ preferred credit score is 620 or higher. Another quotient—the debt-to-income (DTI) ratio—must be 41 percent or lower. DTI ratios are the quotient of total debt divided by gross monthly income.
With a niche in agriculture, Boise farmers are essential to the industry. They deserve a home and a financing option they can afford. USDA loans serve a niche that’s just as important the farmers who use them.

Written and shared by Kevin Pearia

Activities in Treasure Valley

Did you know that prior to the 1960s Treasure Valley was called the Boise River Valley or the Snake River Valley? It was only in 1959 that the name was changed to reflect that the area was akin to a treasure chest rich with opportunities and potential. The name neatly summarizes the low-lying areas from Boise, Idaho to Vale, Oregon which encompasses the cities of Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Kuna, Caldwell, Middleton and a number of others.

Hiking, biking and water sports are just some of the many activities available in this beautiful part of the world and a passion for many outdoor enthusiast. The attractions and amenities on offer illustrate why Treasure Valley is always rated high nationally for a great place to live and why many people relocate to the area. If you and your loved ones enjoy the great outdoors then this is the place to be and the State caters to many outdoor activities, most of which are free!  The cost of living is reasonable and Boise housing and real estate is very affordable. So, what are you waiting for? Research moving and moving quotes, pack your belongings and head for a new and fantastic life in the Valley!

With a wealth of outdoors opportunities, you will be spoiled for choices as to what to do first. If you enjoy being at one with nature, the numerous parks in Treasure Valley are highly recommended for their open space and interesting sights, which cover many thousands of acres including some of the vast and stunning Boise National Forest, which is a haven for anglers, hikers, white water rafters, mountain bikers, horse back riding and runners. Boise Greenbelt is a perennial favorite with residents and visitors alike, who enjoy running, in-line skating, walking, hiking and biking the miles of trails that run along the beautiful Boise River. Take along a picnic, your binoculars and a camera, as a variety of birds and wildlife have made this their home, including deer, beavers, mink, eagles, red-winged blackbirds and beautiful blue herons. If you have four-legged friends of your own, they can accompany you in many parks but dogs must be kept on a leash.

Idaho has many rivers which are ideal for water sports and offer many opportunities for the mild enthusiast or the more experienced and daring. The Boise River is popular in the summer season for rafting or just an easy float in an inner-tube and the run between Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park is especially good. The season runs from June to around October and you can use the facilities independently or book with any of the experienced operators who run excursions on the water. Choose from a serene and pleasurable meander down the river or the adrenalin-filled thrills of white water rafting down the Payette River! The rivers also offer many secluded spots for fishing enthusiasts who enjoy relaxing in a quieter way!

Less than 20 miles outside the city is the Bogus Basin Mountain Resort where you can participate in snowboarding and snow tubing, downhill and cross-country skiing. If you prefer green grass to white snow, head to any of the impressive golf courses in Treasure Valley to improve your game or take lessons with a professional. The Shadow Valley course even has marshals who hand out cookies and coffee to players, which shows just how welcoming the locals are in Treasure Valley!

With so much on offer why don`t you make the best move of your life to Boise, Idaho and enjoy a healthier, happier lifestyle in this incredible location.